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Gun manufacturer cutting workforce

Daniel Defense says 14% cut won't affect growth plan

By Jeff Whitten
Correspondent

POSTED:March 5, 2014 10:27 a.m.

North Bryan-based engineering and weapons manufacturer Daniel Defense announced Tuesday a 14 percent net reduction in workforce due to current market conditions. “We have been watching the market closely and held off as long as possible before making the needed adjustments,” Marty Daniel, president and CEO of Daniel Defense, said. “This restructuring will in no way have an effect on our five-year growth plan. We have made substantial investments in equipment and infrastructure, and are excited about our long-term position as a leader in the firearms industry.” Development Authority of Bryan County Chief Executive Officer Anna Chafin said the DABC is glad to hear Daniel Defense still intends to grow its operation in Black Creek. “The Development Authority of Bryan County understands companies have to make adjustments to stay competitive,” Chafin said in an emailed statement. “We are glad to hear Daniel Defense is still committed to the five-year expansion plan that includes 120 new jobs, and we look forward to working with them to help them continue to be successful.”In January, Daniel Defense announced a five-year, $20 million plan for expansion, which would grow the 47,000-square-foot Black Creek facility to more than 100,000 square feet. “Daniel Defense is financially strong, and will continue to grow as we have the last 10 years”, Daniel said. “Despite having to reduce the workforce in certain areas, we are still recruiting highly-skilled engineers and for other positions throughout the company. This difficult decision allows us to remain competitive, while maintaining long-term growth.” It’s unclear which jobs will be cut or where. The company reportedly employs about 100 workers at its facility in Jasper County, S.C. Roughly 153 workers are employed at its Black Creek plant, according to Inc. 500. Daniel Defense had revenues of $31.7 million in 2013, according to the website. This isn’t the first time the manufacturer has announced layoffs, however. The company cut about 29 jobs and required others to take unpaid furloughs in 2009. Chafin added that the DABC “is working with the Bryan County Board of Commissioners to allow industry — manufacturing and distribution companies — to post available job opportunities in Bryan County on the Board of Commissioner’s website. This will give those looking for jobs in the industrial sector of Bryan County, like the employees affected by Daniel Defense’s restructuring, an opportunity to explore other possibilities.”Chafin said job opportunities will be added as they are submitted to http://bryancountyga.org/careers/index.php.